Ard

Ard

Mental characteristics

Personal history

Throughout his life Ard was understandably resentful of the blatant favoritism his mother showed to Zimmira. For him, learning waterspeech became a competition with his sister. It was a race he was destined to lose; Hulwif never changed her mind, an inflexibility that Zimmira acquired. He earned a reputation as something of a show-off. Though he didn't win Hulwif's praise that way, he attracted Ranndew's attention. She became his friend and ally, and they secretly agreed to partner. During the next Trial of Life, it became obvious they'd had a head start once Ranndew's pregnancy became visibly advanced. Upon their return to Vitgrud, Ard and Ranndew were forbidden to see each other until the year's beginning as punishment. As a result, Ard was unable to attend the birth of his son. Later, when Gorles showed strong water aptitude, Hulwif (and later Zimmira) monopolized the boy's time in training him. When Gorles disappeared after his Trial of Life, Ard considered Zimmira to blame. Eight years later, when Zimmira left to pursue further training, Ard claimed the position of Dancinglight now belonged to him as the oldest water hander in Vitgrud. It was a trial by fire in many respects, having to deal with the advances of the Allied Isles, whom he opposed simply because Zimmira had invited them. Lacking experience as Dancinglight, Ard relied more on the colony captains than either Zimmira or Hulwif had. Thus for the first time in over fifty years, Vitgrud was run in the style of the tiderider hierarchy on which it was actually based.

Education

Ard received training in water handling from his mother and sister.

Employment

As a water handler, Ard can work small amounts of water into strings and nets, as well as ease minor pains.  As Zimmira's deputy, he acts mostly in a supervisory capacity.  Rather than focus on a particular task, he adds his assistance when and where it is needed.

Social

Family Ties

Ard was Hulwif's second child.  His relationship with Zimmira has been mostly contentious, though growing more amicable after her time at the Eddy.  His partnership with Ranndew is among the longest-lasting of Vitgrud.  Their children are Gorles, Pline, and Maz.

Species

human

Birthplace

Ralcondray

Current Residence

Vitgrud